Old Bedford Modernians

New In The Spotlight feature!

This month, former staff member Rob Haworth (1974–90) is in the spotlight. Rob shared his favourite memories from his time at BMS, what he went on to do after leaving the School, and the advice he would give his younger self.

Read the article on The OBM Hub: https://shorturl.at/jAyFs

If you would like to feature on 'In the Spotlight' please email [email protected].

On Friday, we were delighted to welcome back former staff and students, and their guests for our annual Founder’s Dinner in The Refectory. The evening began with reunion groups enjoying a tour of the School, many seeing it again for the first time since leaving, followed by a drink’s reception, where guests had the chance to reconnect, mingle, and browse past editions of The Eagle before taking their seats for dinner.

After a delicious three-course meal, we heard from OBM Club President Paul Nash (1973-80), who reflected on the changes at Bedford Modern School since he left in 1980 and introduced OBM Club Vice President, Georgia Goddard (2012-17). The Headmaster then responded with an update on the School, before our Heads of School, Adil and Tana, shared a fantastic overview of the academic year and their experiences in their roles.

We look forward to welcoming everyone again next year!

You can view photos from the evening on The OBM Hub: https://obmclub.bedmod.co.uk/galleries/view/98

The Steve Monico Memorial OBM Water Polo Tournament was once again a resounding success, with more than 40 OBMs and senior water polo players taking part, representing six decades at BMS.
The afternoon featured a round-robin competition between four mixed teams, producing exciting and highly competitive matches. It was brilliant to see so many spectators cheering on the players.
At the end of the day, players and spectators enjoyed refreshments in the King Room followed by presentations, Year 13 student Ed was awarded the Phil Hurley Trophy in recognition of his outstanding contribution to water polo throughout the academic year. This year also saw the introduction of the Carpenter Cup for Outstanding Achievement in Water Polo, which was presented to fellow Year 13 student, Charlie. Well done to both!

A special thank you goes to Mark Bullerwell (1982-90) for organising the visiting players and to Tom Perry (1978-88) for officiating alongside him.

You can view photos of the day on The OBM Hub: https://obmclub.bedmod.co.uk/galleries/view/97

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Georgia Goddard (2012-17) as the inaugural Vice President of the OBM Club. This newly created role, working alongside current President Paul Nash (1973-80), has been established to complement the excellent work already undertaken by Paul and to further strengthen engagement across the alumni community.

Read more on The OBM Hub: https://shorturl.at/vXUXc.

Just two weeks left to book your place at the Founder’s Dinner!

Join us in The Refectory for a delicious three-course meal, drinks, and plenty of laughter with old friends and new. Bringing together former students and valued former staff whose time at BMS spans from the 1950s through to the 2010s, it’s a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, celebrate reunions, and share memories across generations.

There will also be speeches from the Headmaster, President, and Heads of School, offering reflections on the current academic year, adding to what promises to be a memorable evening.

The event is proving very popular, so whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply looking to reconnect, we recommend securing your place soon to avoid disappointment.

Guests and partners are warmly welcome. We hope to see you there!

For more information and to book your place on The OBM Hub: https://tinyurl.com/muh3sbx7

Our Year 7 - 11 students have been hard at work rehearsing for this year’s Senior School production of Oliver! and are now preparing for their matinee performance this afternoon. Wishing the very best of luck to everyone involved!

We’ve also been taking a trip down memory lane, looking back at our previous productions from the 1990s, 2008 and 2015. Were you on the stage, behind the scenes or in the audience?

Uplifting and impressive as ever, the BMS Senior School Spring Concert was a wonderful celebration of music across generations. The evening showcased a varied programme of popular arrangements alongside stunning instrumental and vocal solos. Alongside students and staff, it was a pleasure to welcome back a group of OBMs, reflecting the strength and spirit of Music at BMS. The Spring Concert remains one of the true highlights of our music calendar, and we extend a huge thank you to the OBMs who were involved.

'TR Troops' are a thriving rugby 7s team made up of more than 40 OBMs from a wide range of year groups. Now a regular and much‑anticipated presence at the Olney 7s, the team has gone from strength to strength since its formation, attracting increasing support and participation each year. As more OBMs get involved, the squad continues to grow, underpinned by strong team spirit and a shared passion for the game. Read more on The OBM Hub: https://shorturl.at/qwDHa

Sunshine and strong competition set the tone at the annual BMSBC vs OBM Rowing Race Day. A closely fought race saw the OBM crew lift the Rex Wilsher Cup, while the BMS Girls retained the Barcock Blade - setting the stage for an exciting rematch next year.

Presentations followed at the Boathouse, including the inaugural Richard Groom Memorial Blazer, awarded to Year 13 student Lucian for Outstanding Commitment to BMS Rowing. Celebrations continued with dinner at The Swan Hotel for the OBMs, where guests enjoyed a delicious two-course meal and an inspiring talk from guest speaker Jess Read (2009-20).

Thank you to everyone who made it such a memorable day and a special thanks to Rajesh Paul (2014-19) and Joe Walker (2010-19) for organising such a fantastic evening and bringing the rowing community together. They look forward to welcoming rowers and supporters back for the next race day, expected in April next year.

New ‘In The Spotlight’ feature!

This month, Chris Barcock (1959-68, former staff 1980-2009) is in the spotlight. We asked Chris about those who had an impact on him, what he's been up to since leaving BMS and advice to his younger self.

Read here: https://obmclub.bedmod.co.uk/news/in-the-spotlight/125/125-In-The-Spotlight-Chris-Barcock

If you would like to feature on 'In the Spotlight' please email [email protected].